Shepherd and Retriever Dogs Available for Adoption

You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website.
Hi! I’m Tessa, a curious and friendly puppy who loves exploring every nook and cranny of my foster home. I’m quite the chatterbox and always ready to share my thoughts with a happy bark. My days are filled with playful adventures, but I also truly cherish cuddle time—snuggling up close to offer a warm, comforting presence. If you’re looking for a loyal companion to enjoy both energetic play and peaceful moments, I’m your girl!

Check out this video and this video and this video of Tessa with her sisters.

Tessa is from an owner surrender. If you are interested in getting to know this animal better, please fill out an adoption application. An adoption application is the best way to show your interest in an animal and is not a binding contract.

To learn more about Ruff Start’s adoption process and the care our foster animals receive, please visit our How to Adopt page.

*Rescue puppies are notorious for losing their birth certificates before entering our rescue. We cannot guarantee the breed or size they will be full grown.*

If you are unable to adopt but want to help this animal and others in our care, you can donate to support the medical and veterinary needs of all Ruff Start Rescue animals. Click here to watch a video of Tessa.

The retriever is a beloved dog breed known for its friendly demeanor, intelligence, and exceptional ability to retrieve objects. With a loyal and gentle nature, retrievers make excellent family pets and are popular choices for service and therapy work. These dogs excel in obedience training and activities such as agility and hunting. Recognized for their shiny coats and moderate size, retrievers come in various colors including golden, Labrador, and Chesapeake Bay. Their overall versatility and affectionate personalities make them cherished companions in many households.

The shepherd dog breed encompasses a versatile group known for their intelligence, loyalty, and strong work ethic. With a heritage deeply rooted in herding and protecting livestock, shepherds excel at various tasks ranging from obedience and agility competitions to search and rescue missions. Their protective nature makes them excellent family pets, offering unwavering devotion and a natural instinct to watch over and care for their loved ones. In addition to their remarkable abilities, shepherds are often characterized by their distinctive appearance, including a sturdy build, alert expression, and a signature double coat that provides insulation and protection in various climates.

Our vision is simple: We strive for a world where every companion animal has a safe and loving forever home...